Volunteer Befriender-Mental Health

Purpose of the Role: 

To support our team of recovery and wellbeing workers by providing companionship and emotional support to their clients who are experiencing mental health challenges, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness and support them in attending groups and appointments. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Offer regular social contact through face-to-face meetings, phone calls, or video chats. 
• Build a trusting and supportive relationship with the client. 
• Encourage engagement in community activities where appropriate. 
• Maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality at all times. 
• Report any concerns or safeguarding issues to the project lead or safeguarding leads. 

Skills and Qualities Needed: 

• Empathy, patience, and good listening skills. 
• Non-judgmental and respectful of others’ experiences and backgrounds. 
• Reliable and able to commit to regular contact. 
• Willingness to undertake training and attend supervision sessions. 
• Abide by health and safety guidelines and share responsibility for own safety and that of colleagues.   
• To adhere to all volunteer policies of the organisation.   
• Willingness to learn (including independently) to extend their knowledge.   
• Understanding of the need for good record keeping and GDPR   

Training and Support: 

• Full induction and training provided. 
• Ongoing support and supervision 
• Opportunities for further training and development. 

Benefits of Volunteering: 

• Make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. 
• Gain experience in mental health support. 
• Be part of a supportive and compassionate team. 
• Enhance your communication and interpersonal skills. 

Additional Information: 

• Volunteers may be required to undergo a DBS check. 
• Travel expenses